Entrepreneurship

The MSc in Entrepreneurship at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a comprehensive and dynamic programme designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to create, develop, and grow innovative ventures in a rapidly changing global economy. This programme combines rigorous academic coursework with practical, hands-on experiences, enabling students to translate ideas into viable business opportunities. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including new venture creation, business model development, innovation management, finance, marketing, and strategic planning, all tailored to foster entrepreneurial thinking and action. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and real-world application, encouraging students to engage in projects, collaborations, and internships that provide valuable insights into the entrepreneurial process. The programme also offers a unique focus on social entrepreneurship, sustainability, and responsible innovation, preparing graduates to not only succeed commercially but also to make a positive impact on society. With a diverse cohort of students from various backgrounds and nationalities, as well as a faculty of experienced entrepreneurs and academics, the MSc in Entrepreneurship at VU Amsterdam offers an inspiring environment for personal growth and professional development. Graduates will be well-equipped to start their own businesses, join innovative start-ups, or contribute to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in established companies. The programme's strong network of industry partners and alumni provides ongoing opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and support in launching and scaling ventures. Overall, this master's programme aims to foster entrepreneurial leadership, resilience, and creativity, empowering students to become successful entrepreneurs and change-makers in their respective fields.

The MSc in Entrepreneurship at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers a comprehensive and dynamic program designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to launch and sustain innovative ventures in a rapidly changing global economy. The program emphasizes an entrepreneurial mindset, strategic thinking, and practical application, enabling graduates to transform ideas into viable businesses or to drive innovation within existing organizations. Throughout the coursework, students explore core topics such as opportunity recognition, business model development, finance, marketing, and digital technologies, providing a well-rounded foundation for entrepreneurial success.

The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with hands-on experience through case studies, team projects, and real-world internships. Students learn how to develop and evaluate business ideas, craft compelling value propositions, and create detailed business plans. Special attention is given to understanding market dynamics, customer behavior, and competitive strategies, ensuring students are prepared for the challenges of starting and growing a new enterprise.

The program also fosters an entrepreneurial mindset by encouraging creativity, resilience, and adaptability – qualities vital for navigating uncertainty and change. Students are exposed to diverse perspectives through interactions with entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry experts, gaining insights into various sectors and business models. Additionally, the curriculum addresses crucial issues such as social responsibility, sustainability, and ethical decision-making in entrepreneurship.

As part of their learning journey, students participate in innovation labs and business simulation exercises, providing a safe environment to test ideas and receive constructive feedback. The program supports aspiring entrepreneurs in developing their ventures from conceptual ideas to tangible startups, while also preparing those interested in intrapreneurship to innovate within larger organizations.

Graduates of the MSc in Entrepreneurship are well-equipped to pursue careers as startup founders, business consultants, corporate innovators, or venture capitalists. They possess a strong entrepreneurial toolkit, a strategic mindset, and a global perspective that enables them to contribute effectively to a diverse range of industries and settings. With a focus on both individual entrepreneurial capability and broader economic impact, the program aims to nurture future leaders who can drive innovation, create jobs, and foster sustainable growth in society.

Admission requirements

There are strict admission criteria. These are set by the Admissions Board, which also decides on individual applications. Applicants are required to have an academic knowledge basis in Business Administration as well as basic knowledge of research methodology and sufficient analytical and statistical skills. For more information about the admission criteria please refer to the programme website. Application to the MSc Entrepreneurship is done by submitting an online application on the UvA website. The application deadline for all international students is 1 April. For all applicants with a Dutch (academic) degree the deadline is 1 May. For more information about the application procedure please refer to the programme website. You can also send an email to admissions@feb.uva.nl

Other requirements

1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) There are strict admission criteria. These are set by the Admissions Board, which also decides on individual applications. Applicants are required to have an academic knowledge basis in Business Administration as well as basic knowledge of research methodology and sufficient analytical and statistical skills. For more information about the admission criteria please refer to the programme website. Application to the MSc Entrepreneurship is done by submitting an online application on the UvA website. The application deadline for all international students is 1 April. For all applicants with a Dutch (academic) degree the deadline is 1 May. For more information about the application procedure please refer to the programme website. You can also send an email to admissions@feb.uva.nl

Funding options for the Entrepreneurship degree programme at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam include a variety of scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities designed to support students throughout their studies. The university offers several scholarships specifically aimed at international students, such as the VU Fellowship Programme, which provides financial assistance to talented students from outside the European Union. Dutch students and residents may be eligible for government grants and loans, including the Studentenlening (student loan) provided by the Dutch government, which can help cover tuition fees and living costs. Additionally, the university collaborates with various organizations and companies to offer sponsorships and tailored scholarships to outstanding students demonstrating entrepreneurial potential or academic excellence. Students are also encouraged to seek external funding sources, such as Erasmus+ grants for European students or private foundations supporting entrepreneurship education. Tuition fees for this programme vary depending on the student’s nationality; for non-EU students, fees tend to be higher than for EU students, and details are provided on the university's official website. The university also offers guidance and consultancy services for students seeking part-time work, internships, or entrepreneurial funding opportunities to finance their studies. Moreover, students can explore student job markets, entrepreneurship competitions, and venture funding competitions hosted or promoted by the university to gain financial support for their projects. The university emphasizes financial planning, encouraging students to apply early for available funding options and providing resources to help with budget management during the programme. Overall, entrepreneurship students at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam have access to a comprehensive range of funding opportunities designed to facilitate their academic journey and entrepreneurial ambitions, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their educational and innovative pursuits.

The Master's in Entrepreneurship at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and mindset required to develop and manage innovative new ventures. This programme emphasizes an entrepreneurial approach within various organizational settings, including start-ups, scale-ups, and established corporations seeking innovation. Students learn to identify market opportunities, develop viable business ideas, and implement effective strategies for growth and sustainability.

The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical experiences, enabling students to apply concepts in real-world contexts. Core courses cover topics such as entrepreneurial finance, business model innovation, strategic entrepreneurship, and social entrepreneurship. The programme also offers specialized electives that allow students to tailor their studies according to individual interests, such as digital entrepreneurship, international entrepreneurship, or sustainable business development.

Learning is fostered through case studies, group projects, internships, and interaction with entrepreneurs and industry experts. Students gain hands-on experience by developing their own startup ideas or working on live projects from existing companies. The programme supports entrepreneurial mindset development, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and resilience, all essential qualities for successful entrepreneurs.

The faculty includes experienced academics and practitioners who bring a wealth of entrepreneurial experience and research expertise. The university’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, including incubators and networking events, offers students opportunities to connect with entrepreneurs and investors, fostering collaborations and potential funding opportunities.

Graduates of the Master's in Entrepreneurship are prepared for careers as entrepreneurs, innovation managers, or consultants in various sectors. They also possess the knowledge to launch their own startups or drive innovation within existing organizations. The programme values diversity, creativity, and proactive initiative, encouraging students to think disruptively and lead change in their chosen fields.

With its international focus and collaboration opportunities across Europe and beyond, the programme prepares students to operate in dynamic, global markets. Graduates are equipped with entrepreneurial skills that are highly valued in today's competitive and ever-changing economic landscape, making them well-suited for leadership roles that require innovative thinking and strategic agility.